Frequently Asked Questions

What must my non-European partner do to marry me in
the UK?

Well, UK law does not basically distinguish at all between
nationalities when it comes to getting wed, but unfortunately the
Government have just made things extremely difficult for citizens from
countries outside the EEA (which is basically the EU and a few other
European countries like Switzerland) to marry in the UK by insisting on
special Visas or a Home Office Certificate and attendance at special
designated Register Offices to give notice.

The new law doesn't apply to the Church of England/Wales, so some
couples are apparently untouched by the new stipulations. Our
understanding, though, is that that immigration enquiries might well be
made by the church and their other stipulations mean that this is by
no means an ’easy option’.

If you think these changes might affect you in any way, please read our
legal pages before getting too deep into your planning! And be prepared
to take detailed advice from a Registrar or vicar at an early stage.

Please note that we can’t
offer more than very general advice on visas and residency issues.
Contact your local embassy or consulate if in doubt!